Management Watch

Part II: Things to never tell your boss (or your employee)

Judging from the reader comments on 10 things feds should never tell the boss, there are plenty of inappropriate remarks uttered by managers and employees alike. Here’s a sampling of some of the best of the worst that our readers added:

"If you don't like it, quit or retire.”

“I really don't like learning new things.”

"I'm not smart enough to work on those new computers. I shouldn't have to do that task." (Said by a 2210 series GS-12)

"I like being married and for more than just the sex.”

"You will only do EXACTLY what I tell you to do!!"

“I cannot give you the job because you don't have a college education.” (Said by a manager who had only a high school diploma.)

“That task is not on my list of priorities -- get someone else to do it.”

"I know women get emotional.” (Said by a manager.)

“I have rehearsal with the agency choir.” (Used as an excuse to avoid doing a mandatory report required for employee's position.)

My favorite comment, however, tied into the recent overspending debacle: “What about: ‘I scheduled our next off-site [meeting] in Vegas and used a GSA contract to save money.’ Or maybe: ‘My wife said it was OK.' Thanks -- I'll be here all week.”